If your fridge suddenly stops cooling or starts making weird noises, you probably feel a mix of panic and annoyance. The good news is most fridge problems have a simple cause and can be tackled without calling a technician right away. Below we break down the most frequent issues, give you step‑by‑step fixes, and tell you when it’s time to hand over the job to the pros.
The first thing to check is the temperature setting. Many people set the dial too high thinking it will make things colder, but the opposite can happen. Turn the knob to the middle setting and give the fridge 24 hours to stabilize.
If the temperature is correct and you still have warm spots, look at the condenser coils. Dust and pet hair act like a blanket, preventing heat from escaping. Pull the fridge away from the wall, unscrew the coil cover, and vacuum the coils with a brush attachment. A clean coil can improve cooling by up to 30%.
Next, examine the door seals. A cracked or warped gasket lets warm air sneak in, causing the compressor to work overtime. Close the door on a dollar bill – if it slides out easily, the seal needs replacing. You can buy a gasket kit for under £20 and install it yourself with a screwdriver.
Water leaking inside: Check the defrost drain. Over time it can clog with food particles. Locate the drain tube at the back of the freezer, pour a cup of hot water down it, and clean any debris with a thin brush.
Noise problems: A humming or rattling sound often means the compressor is working hard or the fan blade is hitting something. Unplug the fridge, remove the rear access panel, and spin the fan manually. If it wobbles, replace the fan motor.
Frost build‑up: Too much frost usually points to a door that isn’t sealing or a faulty defrost timer. Defrost the freezer manually, clean the seal, and set the timer back to the factory default (often 8‑10 hours).
Finally, keep the fridge well stocked but not overloaded. Too many items block airflow, while a near‑empty fridge forces the compressor to run longer. Aim for a balance – a few shelves of food, plenty of breathing room.
When you’ve tried these steps and the fridge still won’t cool, the compressor or refrigerant may be failing. That’s when you should call a qualified repair service. A professional can test the sealed system, recharge the refrigerant, or replace the compressor safely.
Regular maintenance keeps most fridge issues at bay. Set a reminder to clean the coils every three months, inspect door seals weekly, and defrost the freezer twice a year. With these habits, your fridge will stay reliable, your food stays fresh, and you avoid costly emergency calls.
Got a specific fridge problem that isn’t covered here? Drop a comment or give us a call – we love helping neighbors in South Shields keep their kitchens running smoothly.
Ever wondered why your fridge suddenly stops working? Learn about the most common fridge failures, from faulty thermostats to troublesome compressors. This guide breaks down frequent problems, offering practical tips for DIY checks and maintenance. These insights might just save you from pesky fridge woes and costly repairs.